In a highly anticipated third reading debate in the House of Commons, the contentious ‘Rwanda Bill’ received majority approval with only 11 Conservative members casting opposing votes, passing unamended by a majority of 44. Asylum seekers have expressed that their views on the scheme have received little attention, despite strong condemnation from judges, activists, and the UN Refugee Agency.
Following the bill’s passage in the House of Commons, Prime Minister Sunak has urged the House of Lords to swiftly pass his controversial Rwanda deportation bill, claiming it is ‘the will of the people’ and insisting the Conservative party is united on the issue despite this week’s mass rebellions.
In a hastily arranged Downing Street press conference, he stated, ‘The treaty with Rwanda is signed, and the legislation which deems Rwanda a safe country has been passed unamended in our elected chamber.’ The legislation unilaterally declares Rwanda a safe country to which to deport asylum seekers.
While the House of Lords is expected to pass the bill, it is likely to face significant opposition and delay due to widespread concerns about the plan and doubts about its compliance with international law. It could potentially be returned to the House of Commons with amendments.
In this address, Sunak used the term ‘plan’ 47 times in 25 minutes, reiterating his willingness to disregard the views of the European Court of Human Rights in pushing ahead with deportation plans, as outlined in the bill.
The process of passing a bill in the United Kingdom typically involves several stages:
1.Introduction: The bill is introduced, usually by the government or individual Members of Parliament (MPs).
2.First Reading: The bill’s title and main content are presented in a brief session with no debate.
3.Second Reading: Detailed discussion of the bill’s content takes place, and MPs may propose amendments. In the House of Commons, the bill is usually sent to a committee for review.
4.Committee Stage: A committee conducts an in-depth examination of the bill, which may include hearings with witnesses and discussion of proposed amendments.
5.Report Stage: The committee reports its findings, and further amendments may be considered.
6.Third Reading: The final version of the bill is debated, with limited opportunities for major changes.
7.House of Lords Review: If the bill started in the House of Commons, it is sent to the House of Lords for review, where a similar process occurs.
8.Consideration of Amendments: If the House of Lords proposes amendments, the bill goes back to the House of Commons for negotiation. This process may involve multiple rounds.
9.Royal Assent: Once both houses agree on the final text, the bill is sent to the monarch for formal approval. Royal Assent is usually a formality, and the bill becomes law.
10.Commencement: The law comes into effect upon receiving Royal Assent, unless a specific commencement date is specified in the bill.
This general process ensures thorough examination, debate, and scrutiny of proposed legislation before it becomes law.